Orbital ATK has announced it has produced its 25,000th
composite structure for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the equivalent of more than 150
ship sets. The Orbital ATK Aerospace Structures Division in Clearfield, Utah,
manufactures the composite frames for the Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 center and aft
fuselages.

“The production of 25,000 parts is a remarkable accomplishment that could not have
happened without the commitment, dedication and diligence of each and every
employee at this plant,” said Steve Earl, Vice President and General Manager of Orbital
ATK’s Aerospace Structures Division. “Our employees should all be proud of their
contributions to the Boeing Company and air transport customers around the world.”
Composite materials are critically important in the production of next-generation aircraft.

Because they are strong and lightweight, they deliver fuel efficiencies and operability
unavailable using traditional metal manufacturing. Orbital ATK ships the aft composite
parts to one of Boeing’s next tier suppliers in Georgia and the center composite parts to
Leonardo in Italy for pre-assembly work. The frames then become part of the barrel
sections of the fuselage, acting as the “ribs” of the airplane.